Tottenham Hotspur: Noel Whelan says Spurs ‘compete’ for transfer targets Joe Gelhardt and Jensen Weir
Tottenham are keen to take advantage of Wigan Athletic’s administration by planning a double swoop for Joe Gelhardt and Jensen Weir, according to recent reports.
The Sun claimed that Spurs are seeking to exploit the situation by making moves for the 18-year-old duo, and Noel Whelan believes that the Londonders will have to ‘compete’ with Celtic if they want to sign the teenagers in the summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds United striker has backed the duo to leave the Latics. After being asked if the teenager will leave in the summer, Whelan said: “Gelhardt and Weir, because of the administration, are in a very good position to get a move away from Wigan at the end of the season.
“They are going to have to compete with Tottenham and some other clubs as well. These two young players are wanted by some of the top clubs in Britain.”
“The club need to take the shackles off and allow these two young players to go. They will get some money back which is needed to help that club survive.”
It is difficult to disagree with Whelan here, as Wigan’s financial woes have put them in a precarious position. The Latics confirmed last week that the club are in dire straits following administration, meaning that it will be hard for them to keep hold of some of their talent.
According to Football Insider, Celtic are also closely monitoring Gelhardt as his valuation is expected to plummet in the wake of the news about the Championship club. The striker has enjoyed a breakthrough season at the DW Stadium, scoring once in 18 games, which has put him on Tottenham’s radar.
Weir, who is the son of Everton legend David, is also wanted by Spurs, and Wigan administrators have confirmed they have received an official approach for the pair.
Mourinho is well aware that his budget has been limited in light of recent events and he will have to resort to sorting out swap deals, signing free agents and pursuing cheaper options this summer. Spurs will likely be eager to wrap up a deal as quickly as possible, amid interest from Celtic, Everton and Leicester.
Scouts are confident that Gelhardt can be groomed into a similar style to Harry Kane who is the club’s top scorer this season. However, the Lilywhites will have some convincing to do, as Troy Parrott has been marginalised for the majority of the campaign.
Whether or not they will be able to offer Gelhardt the game-time that he would like remains to be seen.
Tottenham fans, do you think Daniel Levy should sign Joe Gelhardt and Jensen Weir in the summer? Let us know by commenting below!